As you’d expect from Northern Ireland’s largest county, Tyrone is packed with things to do whether you’re going with the kids, a group of friends or as a couple.
You want adrenalin-pumping adventure? Buckle up, saddle up or fill your hiking boots. Prefer something a bit more tranquil? Calm down, we know just the place.
Tyrone was made to be looked at
With the unspoilt beauty of the Sperrin Mountains, a simple drive through County Tyrone is good medicine for the eyes and soul. There are four spectacular driving routes in the Sperrins that even National Geographic went all misty-eyed over - and then included them in its world's top 101 scenic drives.
Of course, wild and untouched mountains mean they are teeming with birds and wildlife. If your luck’s in, you may spot golden eagles or a rare sighting of a red grouse. There are plenty of vista stops so pack a pair of binoculars.
History and heritage
For history buffs, County Tyrone has plenty going on. From our ancient past, the mysterious Beaghmore Stone Circles have an elemental energy that can mesmerise. The Hill of The O’Neill from where the chieftain dynasty ruled Gaelic Ireland for over 300 years is a sight to behold.
Or discover the strong links between Tyrone and the New World at the Ulster American Folk Park where a replica thatched cottage and full-scale emigrant sailing ship will have you enthralled. Or you could trace America’s presidential past at the ancestral homes of two (no less) U.S. Presidents - Ulysses S. Grant and Woodrow Wilson.
Get your adrenalin pumping
If you’re into adventure sports, you’ll find something to get your adrenalin levels going from 1 to 11. For serious mountain bikers, Davagh Forest’s Trails are an absolute must but they also have family-friendly tracks too.
Blessingbourne Mountain Bike Trails have loads of technical trail stuff for keen bikers of all ages and abilities. You could always choose to go off the beaten track with a guided or self-guided Far and Wild cycle tour through the Sperrins and enjoy the stunning scenery and find out where to source the best local artisan food.
Thrillseekers naturally gravitate to the muddy fun and extreme adventures at Todd’s Leap where gravity’s hold on you will be tested. And if you’re into exhilarating hikes or just a gentle stroll, the Sperrins has you covered in beautiful walks like Glenelly Valley, Craignamaddy Circuit, Carntogher Way, Lough Fea, Gortin Lakes and plenty more.
Or something gentler…
There are more sedate pursuits if you just want to get away from it all. Fishing the River Mourne for salmon is nothing but a pure delight. You could take a sporting break at Baronscourt Estate where salmon fishing on private beats in the Mourne, or pike fishing on private lakes are renowned.
Or take yourself off for a gentle drift on Gortin Glen Lakes where the wilderness and shelter makes canoeing a total pleasure. You can even camp over at Gortin Glen Forest Park. Speaking of which, a picnic here is one of life’s simplest pleasures.
Therapy… of the hands-on and retail kind
Unwinding at Corick House Spa retreat in the secluded Clogher Valley is an indulgence that’s hard to turn down. What’s not to love about a Georgian mansion with a state-of-the art hydro therapy massage pool and luxurious pampering treatments? Or you could give the credit card a therapeutic workout with a bit of shopping at The Linen Green village outside Dungannon.
Paint the town red
For an unforgettable night on the town, the buzz of Omagh Main Street is hard to beat. There are loads of bars and eateries – and a nightclub if you want to throw a few shapes. If you fancy a special meal out, The Brewer’s House gastropub and restaurant is a real gem in Donaghmore. And if you happen to be around in September, the three-day Bluegrass Music Festival in Omagh - the largest outside of North America - is finger-clickin’ good.
And that’s just the start of it
Tyrone is packed with all sorts of goodies no matter what kind of trip you’re planning. Bring the family or leave them behind and go with friends…or just bring the pair of you. There’s loads of room for everyone.
Whilst every effort has been made to ensure information is correct, we strongly advise checking in advance before you travel to your intended destination to ensure its open and book tickets if applicable.
